[English 101] HOUSE HUNTING - Terms for renting or buying a new place

Teaching Material

1. My rent is due on the first of each month.
• Rent (noun/verb) - Money paid regularly to use or occupy a property.
• Use “rent” when talking about the recurring payment for a place you don't own, or the act of paying it. It's central to any rental discussion.
• Friend: How much rent are you paying for that new apartment?
• Lease payment - Use “lease payment” when emphasizing the contractual agreement aspect of renting.
2. I signed a one-year lease for the apartment.
• Lease (noun) - A contract outlining terms for renting a property for a specified period.
• Use “lease” to discuss the official contract between tenant and landlord. It defines rules, rights, and obligations for both parties.
• Agent: Remember to review your lease before finalizing any agreement.
• Rental agreement - Use “rental agreement” if you want a more general term for any binding rental arrangement.
3. My landlord prefers payment by direct transfer.
• Landlord (noun) - The property owner who rents out a home or apartment to a tenant.
• Use “landlord” when referring to the owner or person managing the rental property. Important for discussing repairs or lease terms.
• Tenant: I'll call the landlord if there's an issue with the heating system.
• Property owner - Use “property owner” when focusing on the ownership aspect rather than the rental arrangement.
4. Each tenant must sign the lease before moving in.
• Tenant (noun) - A person who rents and occupies a property owned by someone else.
• Use “tenant” when referring to yourself or someone else living in a rented property. Central in discussions about rights or responsibilities.
• Landlord: Are you the only tenant, or will you have roommates?
• Renter - Use “renter” in casual conversation to highlight the act of paying for temporary occupancy.
5. I’ll get my security deposit back if there’s no damage.
• Security Deposit (noun phrase) - Money held by the landlord as protection against potential damages or unpaid rent.
• Use “security deposit” when discussing the upfront refundable amount you pay. Essential for new leases and move-out refunds.
• Friend: Make sure to document the condition to protect your security deposit.
• Damage deposit - Use “damage deposit” if the deposit is strictly meant for property damages.
6. They saved for years to afford the down payment on a house.
• Down Payment (noun phrase) - An initial, often large, payment made when purchasing a property to secure the loan.
• Use “down payment” when talking about buying a home, referencing the initial portion of the purchase price paid upfront.
• Broker: How much do you have for the down payment?
• Initial deposit - Use “initial deposit” interchangeably in some contexts, though “down payment” is more standard for real estate.
7. We’re applying for a mortgage with a local bank.
• Mortgage (noun) - A loan for purchasing property, secured by the house or apartment itself.
• Use “mortgage” when discussing home loans. Fundamental to property buying conversations, it involves monthly payments and interest.
• Friend: Which lender offered you the best mortgage rate?
• Home loan - Use “home loan” when speaking generally about financing a property; less formal than “mortgage.”
8. A lower interest rate can save thousands on a mortgage.
• Interest Rate (noun phrase) - The percentage charged by a lender on the amount borrowed, paid over time.
• Use “interest rate” to discuss the cost of borrowing. Vital when comparing loans or budgeting monthly payments.
• Agent: Make sure you compare interest rates from different banks before deciding.
• Annual percentage rate - Use “annual percentage rate” (APR) for a more formal, inclusive figure of the total borrowing cost.
9. Our real estate agent found us several properties to view.
• Real Estate Agent (noun phrase) - A licensed professional who helps buyers and sellers in property transactions.
• Use “real estate agent” when referring to someone facilitating home purchases or rentals. They guide you from listings to final negotiations.
• Friend: Are you working with a real estate agent or searching on your own?
• Realtor - Use “realtor” in areas where the term is trademarked, focusing on membership in a professional organization.
10. I found a promising listing with photos of each room.
• Listing (noun) - A property advertisement, often posted online or in print, offering details and price.
• Use “listing” to reference ads or official posts about properties for sale or rent. Central to searching for new places.
• Friend: Check online listings for updated prices and available units.
• Property ad - Use “property ad” informally when describing any promotional notice about a real estate offering.
11. We attended an open house to get a feel for the neighborhood.
• Open House (noun phrase) - A scheduled event where the home is open for potential buyers or renters to tour freely.
• Use “open house” to refer to casual viewing events that require no private appointment. Useful for exploring multiple homes quickly.
• Agent: Don’t forget to visit the open house this Saturday to see the property in person.
• Viewing day - Use “viewing day” in more general contexts where booking may still be needed, but it’s not strictly ‘open.’
12. We scheduled a property viewing for Wednesday afternoon.
• Property Viewing (noun phrase) - An arranged time to tour a property, usually set by appointment.
• Use “property viewing” when you have a specific appointment to inspect the place. It’s a critical step before any offer.
• Agent: Is Friday good for your next property viewing, or do you prefer the weekend?
• House tour - Use “house tour” if describing a more relaxed walkthrough, often for curiosity or quick looks.
13. The landlord asked for an application fee before screening.
• Application Fee (noun phrase) - A charge often required to process documents for potential tenants, like credit checks.
• Use “application fee” in contexts involving rentals, especially where the landlord or management covers processing costs like background checks.
• Friend: Did you pay the application fee for that apartment yet?
• Admin fee - Use “admin fee” if it’s not strictly for credit checks but for broader administrative tasks during application.
14. The realtor mentioned a mandatory credit check before signing the lease.
• Credit Check (noun phrase) - An examination of one’s financial history, important in determining rental or loan eligibility.
• Use “credit check” to refer to a crucial step verifying your financial reliability. Landlords or mortgage lenders often require this.
• Friend: Did the landlord run a credit check on you yet?
• Credit screening - Use “credit screening” if you want to emphasize the thorough nature of the assessment.
15. They asked for a reference from my current landlord.
• Reference (noun) - A testimonial or recommendation (often from a previous landlord or employer) regarding a tenant’s reliability.
• Use “reference” when you need someone to confirm your rental or work history. Essential for building trust with a new landlord.
• Landlord: Please provide a reference showing you’ve been a good tenant in the past.
• Recommendation letter - Use “recommendation letter” if it’s more formal or detailed, especially for higher-stakes tenancy or job applications.
16. He received an eviction notice after missing multiple rent payments.
• Eviction Notice (noun phrase) - A formal document from a landlord demanding a tenant leave the property.
• Use “eviction notice” to describe the legal final step to remove a tenant. It’s critical in discussions about rental disputes or obligations.
• Friend: Hopefully, you’ll never have to deal with an eviction notice.
• Vacate notice - Use “vacate notice” in regions where legal eviction might not be the official term or in a more informal sense.
17. Check if utilities are included in the rent before signing.
• Utilities (noun (plural)) - Basic services like water, electricity, gas, and sometimes garbage collection.
• Use “utilities” to talk about essential services for a living space. This is important when budgeting monthly costs in a new place.
• Landlord: Utilities are extra, so you’ll need to set them up in your name.
• Services - Use “services” in broader contexts to include optional add-ons like internet or cable.
18. Report any maintenance issues to the landlord right away.
• Maintenance (noun) - Upkeep or repairs needed to keep a property in good condition.
• Use “maintenance” when discussing repairs or ongoing property care. Tenants often wonder whether this is their responsibility or the landlord’s.
• Tenant: Is maintenance included in my rent, or do I pay extra?
• Upkeep - Use “upkeep” in a casual sense to emphasize consistent, routine care of the place.
19. The pet policy only allows cats but no dogs.
• Pet Policy (noun phrase) - Rules regarding whether pets are allowed and under what conditions in a rental property.
• Use “pet policy” when clarifying if animals can live on the property. Always confirm rules, deposits, or additional fees if you have pets.
• Tenant: I have a small dog. Does your pet policy permit that?
• Pet agreement - Use “pet agreement” if there’s a separate legal paper addressing fees and responsibilities for pet ownership.
20. The apartment is fully furnished, which saves me from buying new furniture.
• Furnished (adjective) - A property that comes with basic furniture like beds, sofas, and tables.
• Use “furnished” for rentals or properties that include items like couches, beds, or dressers. Great for short-term stays or minimal hassle moves.
• Agent: Are you looking for a furnished place or do you have your own furniture?
• Fully equipped - Use “fully equipped” to emphasize comprehensive amenities (furniture, appliances) in a property.
21. It’s cheaper, but the apartment is unfurnished, so I need to buy a bed.
• Unfurnished (adjective) - A property that does not come with furniture, leaving the tenant to provide their own.
• Use “unfurnished” when you must bring your own furniture. Good for longer-term renters or those with existing household items.
• Friend: Are you okay with an unfurnished place? It might cost more upfront for furniture.
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22. I’m considering a studio apartment downtown for simplicity and lower rent.
• Studio Apartment (noun phrase) - A single-room unit with a combined living and sleeping area, plus a separate bathroom.
• Use “studio apartment” to refer to a compact living space, ideal for single occupants or minimalists. Great for central city locations.
• Friend: Do you think a studio apartment is big enough for all your stuff?
• Bachelor flat - Use “bachelor flat” in regions like the UK or Canada where that term is common.
23. I upgraded to a one-bedroom for extra privacy.
• One-Bedroom (noun) - An apartment with a separate bedroom and a distinct living area.
• Use “one-bedroom” to describe an apartment layout with a separate bedroom. It's the most common step up from a studio.
• Friend: A one-bedroom might be better if you need more space for guests.
• Single-bedroom - Use “single-bedroom” interchangeably, often in property listings or formal ads.
24. We like the townhouse because it feels more like a house than an apartment.
• Townhouse (noun) - A multi-level home that shares walls with adjacent units, often with its own entrance.
• Use “townhouse” when talking about a row-style home with multiple floors. Great for families who need some privacy without full house costs.
• Agent: A townhouse can offer more space than a standard apartment while staying affordable.
• Row house - Use “row house” to highlight the shared walls and uniform design, especially in certain urban areas.
25. We considered renting a duplex so we could live next to family.
• Duplex (noun) - A building divided into two separate living units, often with their own entrances.
• Use “duplex” to describe a property structure containing two dwellings. Handy for extended families or house hacking scenarios.
• Friend: Is the duplex side-by-side or upstairs-downstairs?
• Two-family home - Use “two-family home” if you want a simpler, more descriptive term for dual-occupancy houses.
26. I bought a condominium because I prefer shared amenities like a gym.
• Condominium (noun) - A unit in a residential building or complex owned individually, with shared common areas.
• Use “condominium” when referring to individually owned units in a complex. Common if you want ownership but minimal outdoor maintenance.
• Friend: Do you pay monthly fees for condominium upkeep?
• Condo - Use “condo” to shorten references in everyday speech, focusing on the same concept of shared building ownership.
27. Her condo fee includes water, garbage, and lawn care.
• Condo Fee (noun phrase) - Monthly payments collected to cover building maintenance, amenities, and communal utilities.
• Use “condo fee” to specify shared upkeep costs in a condominium setting. Keep it in mind when budgeting monthly expenses.
• Owner: My condo fee just increased to cover the new security system.
• Maintenance fee - Use “maintenance fee” when referencing general building expenses, not strictly limited to condos.
28. The homeowners association enforces lawn care standards in the neighborhood.
• Homeowners Association (HOA) (noun phrase) - An organization in a housing community that sets rules and manages common areas.
• Use “homeowners association” for communities with shared governance. Know their rules and fees before purchasing or moving in.
• Neighbor: The HOA meets every month to discuss neighborhood improvements.
• HOA - Use “HOA” as a convenient shorthand in casual or quick references to the organization.
29. Our HOA fee covers security, landscaping, and the swimming pool.
• HOA Fee (noun phrase) - Regular payments to the homeowners association for community upkeep and amenities.
• Use “HOA fee” to discuss mandatory community dues in managed neighborhoods. Key factor when calculating monthly expenses.
• Friend: How high is the HOA fee in your new neighborhood?
• Association dues - Use “association dues” if referencing smaller or less formal homeowner groups.
30. They purchased a single-family home with a large backyard.
• Single-Family Home (noun phrase) - A free-standing residential building meant for one household, not attached to other homes.
• Use “single-family home” to highlight a standalone house offering privacy and typically a yard. Often more expensive than attached options.
• Agent: Are you looking for a condo, townhouse, or a single-family home?
• Detached home - Use “detached home” for clarity on the no-shared-walls arrangement, commonly in suburban listings.
31. Row houses often have a uniform look and smaller front yards.
• Row House (noun phrase) - One of several connected houses sharing side walls, common in urban areas.
• Use “row house” when referencing a line of adjacent, similar homes. Often found in older city neighborhoods or historical districts.
• Agent: A row house can be more affordable than a detached home if you’re okay sharing walls.
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32. They moved into a cozy bungalow near the lake.
• Bungalow (noun) - A low-profile house, typically one story, sometimes with a small upper room or attic.
• Use “bungalow” to describe a single-story house style, popular with retirees or those who prefer simpler layouts.
• Friend: A bungalow is perfect if you don’t want to deal with stairs.
• Ranch house - Use “ranch house” if you’re describing a sprawling one-floor design with open floor plans.
33. They’re renting a basement suite to cut housing costs.
• Basement Suite (noun phrase) - A living space located below ground level in a home, often rented separately.
• Use “basement suite” to specify a lower-level rental or living area. Important for discussing sunlight, ventilation, or moisture concerns.
• Landlord: The basement suite has a separate entrance for added privacy.
• Basement apartment - Use “basement apartment” interchangeably, focusing on the self-contained setup below ground level.
34. The loft features exposed brick and large windows for plenty of light.
• Loft (noun) - An open-plan space, often converted from industrial buildings or featuring high ceilings.
• Use “loft” when referring to a large open space with minimal interior walls, typically trendy in urban areas.
• Friend: Lofts can be great if you love an open, airy feel.
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35. He dreams of living in a penthouse overlooking the city skyline.
• Penthouse (noun) - A luxury apartment located on the top floor of a building, often with premium features or views.
• Use “penthouse” to discuss high-end, top-floor units. Typically includes exclusivity, prime views, and higher price points.
• Agent: The penthouse has a private rooftop terrace and elevator access.
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36. A detached house often costs more but offers greater independence.
• Detached (adjective) - A standalone home with no shared walls, offering maximum privacy.
• Use “detached” to stress that the house is not physically connected to another. A key descriptor when comparing property types.
• Friend: Are you leaning toward a detached home for extra space?
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37. A semi-detached home can be cheaper than fully detached but offers more privacy than a row house.
• Semi-Detached (adjective) - A house sharing one common wall with an adjacent home, with private entrances.
• Use “semi-detached” to describe a home partially connected to another. Good compromise between a townhouse and a fully detached property.
• Agent: If noise is a concern, a semi-detached might still be acceptable for you.
• Twin home - Use “twin home” in regions where that term is common to emphasize the mirrored layout.
38. Consider property tax when budgeting for a new home.
• Property Tax (noun phrase) - A tax on real estate paid to local government, based on the property’s assessed value.
• Use “property tax” in homeownership conversations. Vital cost factor, varying by location and property value.
• Friend: How high is the property tax in that area?
• Real estate tax - Use “real estate tax” if official documents use that wording or in certain jurisdictions.
39. The bank wants an appraisal before approving our mortgage.
• Appraisal (noun) - An expert’s valuation of a property’s worth, often needed for loans.
• Use “appraisal” to address the process of determining a property's market value. Key for mortgages and fair purchase prices.
• Broker: We need the appraisal results to finalize the home price negotiation.
• Valuation - Use “valuation” in more general business contexts or for official reports outside mortgage processes.
40. The inspection revealed minor electrical issues that need fixing.
• Inspection (noun) - A detailed evaluation of a property’s condition, commonly done before finalizing a purchase.
• Use “inspection” to highlight the official check for structural or system problems in a home. Crucial step before closing a deal.
• Buyer: Did the inspection find anything serious, or is the house in good shape?
• Property check - Use “property check” casually if you’re not referencing a formal, professional report.
41. We reviewed the inspection report to decide if repairs were needed.
• Inspection Report (noun phrase) - A document outlining the findings of a property inspection, noting defects and recommendations.
• Use “inspection report” to talk about the formal documentation. It can influence negotiations or be a contingency for purchase.
• Agent: Let’s discuss the inspection report to adjust our offer if repairs are high.
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42. Budget for closing costs; they can be around 2-5% of the purchase price.
• Closing Costs (noun (plural)) - Fees and charges required to finalize a property sale, like legal fees or title insurance.
• Use “closing costs” to cover the final expenses in a real estate transaction. Important to factor them into total home-buying budgets.
• Friend: Did you consider closing costs on top of your down payment?
• Settlement fees - Use “settlement fees” in certain regions where that’s the official term for final charges.
43. Title insurance covers legal costs if someone challenges your property claim.
• Title Insurance (noun phrase) - A policy protecting the buyer and lender against disputes over property ownership.
• Use “title insurance” when finalizing a purchase to ensure the property’s title is clear. Essential for securing your legal ownership.
• Broker: Be sure to get title insurance to avoid future ownership conflicts.
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44. Home insurance is mandatory for most mortgage agreements.
• Home Insurance (noun phrase) - Coverage against damage or losses to a property, like fire or natural disasters.
• Use “home insurance” to discuss policies safeguarding a house and its contents. Usually required by lenders and prudent for owners.
• Lender: Please show proof of home insurance before closing.
• Homeowners insurance - Use “homeowners insurance” interchangeably, emphasizing coverage for owners specifically.
45. Our home warranty covered the heating system repair.
• Home Warranty (noun phrase) - A service contract covering the repair or replacement of certain home systems or appliances.
• Use “home warranty” if you want coverage for mechanical or appliance breakdowns. Different from home insurance, which covers structural damage.
• Agent: A home warranty can offer peace of mind for new buyers.
• Service warranty - Use “service warranty” if the coverage is narrower, often for certain key items like HVAC or plumbing.
46. Money for closing costs is often kept in escrow until the deal is finalized.
• Escrow (noun) - An account or third-party holding of funds or documents until contractual conditions are met.
• Use “escrow” to discuss the secure, neutral holding of money or documents in property transactions, ensuring a fair process for buyer and seller.
• Lender: We’ll place the funds in escrow to ensure all conditions are met.
• Trust account - Use “trust account” if referencing a broader or more general account type in legal contexts.
47. Building equity can take time but is a key benefit of homeownership.
• Equity (noun) - The portion of a property’s value that you truly own, calculated as home value minus remaining mortgage.
• Use “equity” to talk about your stake in a property. Understanding it helps decide on refinancing, selling, or taking out loans against it.
• Friend: How fast does equity grow if your property value rises?
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48. We plan to refinance when rates drop, hoping to save on monthly payments.
• Refinance (verb) - To replace an existing mortgage with a new loan, often to get a better interest rate or terms.
• Use “refinance” when discussing altering your current loan to potentially save money. Useful once you’ve built equity or rates have changed.
• Lender: Refinancing can help you consolidate debt or lower your interest rate.
• Restructure a loan - Use “restructure a loan” in broader financial contexts beyond mortgages.
49. Our mortgage has a 25-year amortization schedule.
• Amortization (noun) - The process of gradually paying off a debt over time through regular payments.
• Use “amortization” to discuss how loan payments chip away at the principal and interest. It’s key for tracking long-term repayment progress.
• Lender: The amortization plan shows how each payment reduces principal and interest.
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50. Each payment reduces the principal and the interest.
• Principal (noun) - The original or remaining amount owed on a loan, not including interest.
• Use “principal” when referencing the core amount of a mortgage. Distinguishing it from interest is important in financial discussions.
• Banker: Paying extra toward the principal can shorten your mortgage term.
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51. The listing price seems high compared to similar homes in the area.
• Listing Price (noun phrase) - The price a seller sets when putting a property on the market.
• Use “listing price” to describe the advertised cost of a home. It’s often the starting point for negotiation.
• Buyer: Do you think the listing price is negotiable?
• Asking price - Use “asking price” interchangeably, highlighting the seller’s initial request rather than a guaranteed sale price.
52. The asking price was lowered after the home stayed on the market for months.
• Asking Price (noun phrase) - The amount a seller wants for their property, which may not be the final sale figure.
• Use “asking price” to discuss the listed amount a seller hopes to receive. Often adjusted based on offers and market feedback.
• Buyer: Is the asking price realistic, or should I place a lower offer?
• Requested price - Use “requested price” for a direct, less formal way to indicate the seller’s desired amount.
53. The negotiation ended with a price that satisfied both the buyer and the seller.
• Negotiation (noun) - A discussion aiming to reach a mutually agreed price or terms for renting or buying.
• Use “negotiation” when talking about the process of reaching final terms or price in a property deal. Essential for closing a fair deal.
• Agent: Be prepared for some back-and-forth negotiation on closing costs.
• Bargaining - Use “bargaining” in casual scenarios where you’re haggling, typically less formal than structured real estate negotiations.
54. We put in an offer slightly below the asking price.
• Offer (noun) - A formal proposal to buy or rent a property at a stated price and conditions.
• Use “offer” to reference the bid you make for a home. It’s typically a written document specifying your proposed price and conditions.
• Agent: If they accept your offer, we’ll move forward to contract signing.
• Proposal - Use “proposal” in a broader context, though “offer” is standard in real estate transactions.
55. They lost the house because another buyer placed a higher bid.
• Bid (noun) - A sum of money one is willing to pay for a property, often in competitive situations or auctions.
• Use “bid” when discussing auctions or competitive markets with multiple offers. It emphasizes the monetary aspect of the transaction.
• Agent: This home might receive multiple bids since it’s in a popular area.
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56. We submitted a counteroffer to meet halfway on price.
• Counteroffer (noun) - A response to an offer with new terms or a different price, continuing negotiations.
• Use “counteroffer” to describe the back-and-forth process once an initial offer is received. Important in finalizing an agreed price.
• Agent: They sent a counteroffer, so we need to decide if we accept or negotiate further.
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57. Both parties signed the purchase agreement, locking in the sale terms.
• Purchase Agreement (noun phrase) - A binding contract outlining the terms, conditions, and price for buying property.
• Use “purchase agreement” to discuss the official document once buyer and seller terms are set. It governs the final transaction.
• Lender: Submit your purchase agreement so we can finalize the mortgage.
• Sales contract - Use “sales contract” in a broader sense when referencing any item’s sale, including real estate.
58. Review the contract thoroughly before you sign anything.
• Contract (noun) - A legally binding document stating terms agreed upon by two or more parties.
• Use “contract” for any binding agreement related to the property, from rental leases to purchase deals. Clarity and accuracy matter.
• Buyer: Let’s get a lawyer to examine the contract for hidden clauses.
• Agreement - Use “agreement” if the terms are simpler or not in a strictly legal format, though it can still be binding.
59. Once the deed is in your name, you officially own the house.
• Deed (noun) - A legal document that grants ownership rights to a property.
• Use “deed” to confirm rightful ownership of the property. This is crucial in finalizing real estate transactions.
• Lawyer: Make sure your name is correctly spelled on the deed to avoid future complications.
• Title deed - Use “title deed” in official contexts emphasizing the property’s title and rights granted.
60. The property deed will be recorded with local authorities post-closing.
• Property Deed (noun phrase) - Specifically mentions the real estate ownership transfer document.
• Use “property deed” for clarity on the type of deed. Typically references official legal documents used in real estate.
• Agent: Keep the property deed safe; it’s proof you legally own the home.
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61. They risk foreclosure if they can’t catch up on mortgage payments.
• Foreclosure (noun) - When a lender reclaims a property due to the borrower’s failure to pay the mortgage.
• Use “foreclosure” when referencing repossession by a bank. Important if discussing distressed properties or credit consequences.
• Friend: Foreclosure deals can be cheaper, but they often come with complications.
• Repossession - Use “repossession” in a broader sense for any item (car, home) taken back by a creditor due to missed payments.
62. They bought a short sale property at a discount, but the process took months.
• Short Sale (noun phrase) - A home sale where the lender accepts less than owed on the mortgage to avoid foreclosure.
• Use “short sale” to describe a lender-approved discounted sale. Often beneficial for buyers seeking deals, but it’s more complex.
• Agent: A short sale can be a bargain, but patience is key as the bank must approve it.
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63. He listed the house slightly under market value to attract more buyers.
• Market Value (noun phrase) - The estimated price a property could fetch under normal conditions.
• Use “market value” for a realistic expectation of a property’s worth. Good to assess if you’re overpaying or setting a fair offer.
• Buyer: Let’s compare the list price to the market value of similar homes.
• Fair market price - Use “fair market price” if you want to emphasize an objective, typical transaction value.
64. The agent checked comparables in the neighborhood to price my listing.
• Comparable (noun/adjective) - A similar property used to gauge a fair price or rental rate.
• Use “comparable” in real estate to reference a property with similar specs for pricing. Essential to avoid overpaying or underpricing.
• Buyer: Any comparables to support my lower offer?
• Comp - Use “comp” informally when discussing property comparisons with agents or lenders.
65. The property manager handles rent collection and repair requests.
• Property Manager (noun) - A person or company hired by an owner to oversee rental units, handle tenants, and coordinate maintenance.
• Use “property manager” for someone who deals with day-to-day operations of rental buildings. Helpful if the landlord is off-site.
• Tenant: Should I call the property manager about the broken water heater?
• Management company - Use “management company” to reference a larger organization handling many aspects of property upkeep and tenant relations.
66. They have a vacancy in the building starting next month.
• Vacancy (noun) - An unoccupied unit or space ready for a new tenant.
• Use “vacancy” to talk about available units. Particularly relevant when searching for rental openings or analyzing rental market conditions.
• Landlord: Our vacancy rate is low, so we can be picky with new tenants.
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67. My housemate and I split the utility bills evenly.
• Housemate (noun) - Someone who shares a house, splitting costs and living space, but not necessarily bedrooms.
• Use “housemate” when living together in a shared house. Focuses on people dividing rent, utilities, and communal spaces.
• Friend: Are you still looking for a new housemate to fill the extra room?
• Roommate - Use “roommate” more generally, though it can imply sharing the same bedroom or the entire place.
68. My flatmate moved out, so I'm looking for someone to take the spare room.
• Flatmate (noun) - Similar to ‘housemate,’ but more common in British English, indicating a shared flat.
• Use “flatmate” in regions where “flat” is the term for an apartment. Perfect if you’re discussing living arrangements in the UK, for example.
• Friend: Are flatmates easy to find in this neighborhood?
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69. The tenant agreement spells out rules about noise levels and late fees.
• Tenant Agreement (noun phrase) - A written contract between a landlord and tenant, outlining rules and obligations.
• Use “tenant agreement” to emphasize the contract’s focus on day-to-day living terms, distinct from purchase contracts. Essential for rentals.
• Landlord: Make sure you understand every clause in the tenant agreement before signing.
• Rental contract - Use “rental contract” for a more direct or generic term referencing any formal lease arrangement.
70. I’m going abroad, so I plan to sublet my apartment for six months.
• Sublet (verb/noun) - Renting a rented property to a third party, with or without the landlord’s direct involvement.
• Use “sublet” if you want to let someone else occupy your rented space temporarily. Check your lease for legal allowances.
• Tenant: The lease allows subletting only with the landlord’s written approval.
• Sublease - Use “sublease” if referencing the written contract or the act of renting out your lease to another.
71. I prefer a month-to-month agreement instead of a fixed-term lease.
• Month-to-Month (adjective phrase) - A lease arrangement that renews every month until canceled, offering flexible move-out terms.
• Use “month-to-month” to describe short-term, flexible rental arrangements. Great if you’re uncertain of long-term plans.
• Landlord: Month-to-month leases usually have a slightly higher rent but give more freedom.
• Rolling contract - Use “rolling contract” in some regions or contexts where it renews periodically under the same terms.
72. They signed a fixed-term lease for one year, locking in the current rent.
• Fixed-Term Lease (noun phrase) - A rental agreement lasting a specific duration, like six months or a year.
• Use “fixed-term lease” for a set start and end date, typically with penalties for early termination. Common for stable, long-term rentals.
• Landlord: A fixed-term lease is beneficial if you plan to stay long-term.
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73. The rental market is tight in downtown areas, so prices are high.
• Rental Market (noun phrase) - The overall supply and demand conditions for rental properties in a specific area.
• Use “rental market” when discussing how easy or hard it is to find rentals, or whether prices are rising or falling.
• Friend: Check the rental market trends to figure out the best time to move.
• Leasing market - Use “leasing market” if focusing on the business side of rental transactions, but “rental market” is more common.
74. He became a homeowner at 30, which was always his goal.
• Homeowner (noun) - A person who possesses the title of a residential property.
• Use “homeowner” when you or someone else owns their residence. Key for discussing responsibilities like mortgage or maintenance.
• Friend: Being a homeowner means you build equity instead of paying rent.
• Property owner - Use “property owner” to be more general, applicable to owners of rental units or commercial buildings.
75. We planted flowers to improve the home’s curb appeal for potential buyers.
• Curb Appeal (noun phrase) - A property’s attractiveness when viewed from the street, influencing first impressions.
• Use “curb appeal” to discuss how visually inviting a home looks from outside. Major factor in attracting buyers or renters.
• Agent: Boosting curb appeal can help your home sell faster.
• Exterior appeal - Use “exterior appeal” in more formal contexts, focusing on outside aesthetics or architecture.
76. We did a walkthrough before closing to confirm all repairs were done.
• Walkthrough (noun) - A final or informal inspection of a property, checking its condition and features.
• Use “walkthrough” when referring to a last check or casual tour of the home. Common step before signing or moving in.
• Buyer: Let’s schedule a final walkthrough to ensure the seller made the promised fixes.
• Final inspection - Use “final inspection” if referencing a structured, official review of the property conditions.
77. Because of the inspection contingency, they withdrew after finding structural damage.
• Inspection Contingency (noun phrase) - A clause in a purchase contract allowing buyers to cancel if inspection reveals major problems.
• Use “inspection contingency” for real estate deals where buyers can renegotiate or withdraw if severe issues come up.
• Agent: An inspection contingency protects you from buying a flawed home unknowingly.
• Inspection clause - Use “inspection clause” for a simpler expression of similar protections in the agreement.
78. Our closing date is next Friday, so we need to finalize finances now.
• Closing Date (noun phrase) - The agreed-upon day when a real estate transaction is finalized and ownership transfers.
• Use “closing date” to reference the final milestone of home purchase or sale. It’s critical for planning moving arrangements and finances.
• Lender: Make sure all documents are ready before the closing date.
• Settlement date - Use “settlement date” in regions or contexts where the property handover or paperwork finalization is referred to as a settlement.
79. The title search came back clear, so we can proceed with the purchase.
• Title Search (noun phrase) - A review of public records to confirm legal ownership and identify any liens or claims on a property.
• Use “title search” when ensuring a property is free of ownership conflicts. Vital step before finalizing the sale or mortgage.
• Lawyer: A thorough title search is crucial to avoid legal disputes later.
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80. We hired a moving company to handle our furniture and boxes.
• Moving Company (noun phrase) - A professional service that helps transport belongings to a new residence.
• Use “moving company” to refer to businesses that handle packing, loading, and transferring items. Essential for stress-free relocations.
• Friend: Which moving company did you use, and was it affordable?
• Removal service - Use “removal service” if you’re in a place where “removal” is standard for describing professional movers.
81. We started packing a week in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
• Packing (noun/verb) - Organizing and placing belongings into boxes or containers for moving.
• Use “packing” to describe preparing items for a move. Plan carefully to protect belongings and label boxes for easy unpacking.
• Friend: Need any help packing fragile items in bubble wrap?
• Boxing up - Use “boxing up” informally when you’re referencing the physical act of putting goods in boxes.
82. After retirement, they considered downsizing to a smaller condo.
• Downsizing (verb/noun) - Moving to a smaller home or reducing belongings, often for financial or lifestyle reasons.
• Use “downsizing” when discussing moving to more compact living or shedding items. Common for retirees or those seeking simpler lifestyles.
• Friend: If you’re downsizing, maybe host a garage sale to clear extra items.
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83. A real estate lawyer can review the paperwork to avoid potential legal issues.
• Real Estate Lawyer (noun phrase) - An attorney specializing in property law, handling contracts, titles, and legal disputes.
• Use “real estate lawyer” if you want expert advice on property transactions. They safeguard your rights and confirm compliance with local laws.
• Agent: It’s wise to hire a real estate lawyer if you have complex terms in your contract.
• Property attorney - Use “property attorney” in places where the term ‘real estate lawyer’ is less common, or you need a general label.
84. It’s currently a buyer’s market, so you might get a better deal on a house.
• Buyer’s Market (noun phrase) - A market condition where supply exceeds demand, giving buyers more negotiation power.
• Use “buyer’s market” to indicate a favorable time to purchase property due to high inventory or lower prices. Great for savvy shoppers.
• Friend: If it’s a buyer’s market, we can offer less than the asking price.
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85. In a seller’s market, houses sell quickly and often above asking price.
• Seller’s Market (noun phrase) - A condition where demand outstrips supply, favoring sellers who can ask for higher prices.
• Use “seller’s market” when there’s limited inventory and high demand, giving sellers the upper hand in pricing and negotiation.
• Agent: If this is a seller’s market, be prepared to offer more to stay competitive.
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86. Securing a pre-approval helps show sellers you’re serious and capable of buying.
• Pre-Approval (noun) - A lender’s preliminary decision to provide a mortgage up to a certain amount, pending final checks.
• Use “pre-approval” when you have an initial commitment from a lender, making your purchase offers more credible. It’s crucial in competitive markets.
• Agent: Get a pre-approval letter before house hunting to strengthen your offers.
• Mortgage pre-qualification - Use “mortgage pre-qualification” for a quick assessment of what you might afford, but it’s not binding for the lender.
87. Improving your credit score can help secure a lower mortgage interest rate.
• Credit Score (noun phrase) - A numerical rating reflecting your creditworthiness, significant in loan applications.
• Use “credit score” to talk about your financial trustworthiness. Essential for landlords checking tenants or lenders evaluating mortgage eligibility.
• Lender: I’ll need your credit score to finalize the loan terms.
• FICO score - Use “FICO score” if referencing the commonly used credit rating system in the United States.
88. They asked for income verification to ensure I can afford rent.
• Income Verification (noun phrase) - Proof of earnings, such as pay stubs or tax returns, required by landlords or lenders.
• Use “income verification” to demonstrate you can handle monthly payments. Common for rental applications and mortgage approvals.
• Lender: Submit your recent pay slips for income verification.
• Proof of income - Use “proof of income” as a simpler term for verifying earnings, typically pay stubs or bank statements.
89. A rent-to-own deal can be a good option if you need time to improve your credit.
• Rent-to-Own (adjective phrase) - A contract allowing a renter to purchase the property after a set period, with a portion of rent applying to the purchase.
• Use “rent-to-own” if you’re not ready for a mortgage but still want a path to ownership. Popular among those fixing credit or saving for a down payment.
• Agent: Let’s discuss the pros and cons of rent-to-own before you commit.
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90. We must vacate the apartment by the end of the month.
• Vacate (verb) - To leave or give up possession of a property, typically at the end of a lease.
• Use “vacate” for official or formal contexts describing moving out. Good to know when referencing the end of a lease or eviction notice.
• Landlord: Please vacate by July 1st, as per the notice.
• Move out - Use “move out” in casual speech when explaining you’re leaving a property for another place.
91. Nonpayment of rent can lead to eviction if not resolved.
• Eviction (noun) - The legal process by which a landlord removes a tenant from rental property.
• Use “eviction” when referencing the legal removal of a tenant. Critical in discussions about tenant rights or obligations.
• Landlord: Eviction is a last resort, but we have no choice if you don’t pay.
• Forced removal - Use “forced removal” for a less formal way to mention eviction, though official documentation usually says ‘eviction.’
92. The listing says utilities included, which means I don’t pay a separate electric bill.
• Utilities Included (phrase) - A rental arrangement where the landlord covers some or all utility costs in the rent.
• Use “utilities included” if you see or offer a single rental fee covering water, heat, or electricity. Helpful for simplifying monthly bills.
• Tenant: Is the rent higher because it’s utilities included?
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93. I filed a maintenance request for the leaky faucet.
• Maintenance Request (noun phrase) - A formal or informal request for repair or upkeep from the landlord or property manager.
• Use “maintenance request” for issues you need fixed in a rental. Keep records of requests to ensure timely repairs.
• Tenant: Should I call or email the maintenance request to the property manager?
• Repair request - Use “repair request” if the issue is specifically about broken or malfunctioning items in the rental.
94. The property features include a large backyard and an updated kitchen.
• Property Features (noun (plural)) - Characteristics or amenities of a home, like number of rooms, garage, yard, or layout.
• Use “property features” when discussing selling points or amenities, helping buyers or renters identify their must-haves.
• Friend: Check the property features to make sure it meets your needs.
• Home attributes - Use “home attributes” in a formal listing, focusing on the house’s distinctive qualities.
95. Our move-in date is October 1st, so we need to pack soon.
• Move-In Date (noun phrase) - The scheduled day a tenant or homeowner takes possession and starts living in the new place.
• Use “move-in date” to coordinate when you’ll officially occupy the property. Important for scheduling, packing, and utility setups.
• Landlord: Let’s confirm your move-in date so I can prepare the keys.
• Occupancy start - Use “occupancy start” in a more formal document referencing the first day of tenancy.
96. Give a 30-day move-out notice if you plan to break the lease early.
• Move-Out Notice (noun phrase) - A written statement from the tenant to the landlord indicating the intent to leave the property.
• Use “move-out notice” when telling your landlord or property manager about leaving. Essential to avoid penalties and keep communication clear.
• Tenant: I’ll send my move-out notice next week to avoid extra fees.
• Termination letter - Use “termination letter” in official contexts, especially if the lease specifies how to formally end the agreement.
97. We hired a contractor to remodel the kitchen before moving in.
• Contractor (noun) - A professional hired to perform specific jobs, like renovations or building repairs.
• Use “contractor” when discussing building or repair work needing specialized skills. Common for property improvements or structural changes.
• Friend: Check references before choosing a contractor for any major home project.
• Builder - Use “builder” specifically for new builds or extensive renovations requiring major structural work.
98. After the renovation, the house looked brand new.
• Renovation (noun) - Upgrading or restoring a property by improving certain areas or features.
• Use “renovation” when referring to significant changes to a property’s interior or exterior. It can increase value or fix outdated features.
• Buyer: We might need a renovation loan if we plan to redo the bathroom right away.
• Revamp - Use “revamp” casually if it’s more cosmetic or design-focused improvements rather than structural.
99. They decided to remodel the kitchen to open it up into the living room.
• Remodel (verb/noun) - A process of altering the layout or structure of a property’s space.
• Use “remodel” when discussing changes to a property’s structure or layout, not just surface updates. Typically bigger than basic repairs.
• Contractor: A remodel could add resale value if done correctly.
• Reconfigure - Use “reconfigure” if focusing on redistributing or reshaping space rather than full-scale aesthetic changes.
100. They took out a home equity loan to fund their kitchen renovation.
• Home Equity Loan (noun phrase) - A loan borrowed against the equity of your home, using the property as collateral.
• Use “home equity loan” for borrowing money based on owned value in the property. Ensure you can handle payments or risk foreclosure.
• Lender: A home equity loan can be an option if you’ve built sufficient equity.
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101. Review the closing disclosure carefully to avoid surprises at settlement.
• Closing Disclosure (noun phrase) - A final statement of loan terms and closing costs that lenders must provide to buyers before settlement.
• Use “closing disclosure” in mortgage transactions to confirm final loan details, interest rates, and fees. It’s a key transparency document.
• Agent: Make sure every fee on the closing disclosure matches what you agreed on.
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